Vuzix Star 1200 User manual

STAR 1200 & 1200XL
Augmented Reality Systems
User Guide
VUZIX CORPORATION

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VUZIX CORPORATION
STAR 1200 & 1200XL – User Guide
© 2012 Vuzix Corporation
2166 Brighton Henrietta Town Line Road
Rochester, New York 14623
Phone: [phone] !Fax: [phone]
www.vuzix.com

1. STAR 1200 &1200XLOVERVIEW ................................... 7!
System Requirements & Compatibility ..................................7!
2. INSTALLATION &SETUP.................................................. 14!
Step 1: Accessory Installation.................................... 14!
Step 2: Hardware Connections.................................. 15!
Step 3: Adjustment..................................................... 19!
Step 4: Software Installation ...................................... 21!
Step 5: Tracker Calibration ........................................ 24!
3. CONTROL BUTTON &ON SCREEN DISPLAY ..................... 27!
VGA Controller ....................................................................27!
PowerPak+ Controller .........................................................29!
OSD Display Options...........................................................30!
4. STAR HARDWARE ......................................................... 34!
STAR Display ......................................................................34!
Nose Bridge.........................................................................36!
Focus Adjustment................................................................37!
Eye Separation ....................................................................37!
Accutilt Adjustment ..............................................................38!
Camera Removal.................................................................38!
Wrap Noise-Isolating Earphones.........................................39!
Tether Strap.........................................................................39!
Wrap Tracker.......................................................................40!
5. DEVELOPER TOOLS &SUPPORT..................................... 42!
Vuzix VR/AR SDK – Windows version ................................42!
Acquiring Vuzix VR/AR SDK ...............................................43!
6. EYEWEAR CARE &SUPPORT.......................................... 44!
Cleaning..................................................................... 44!
Support Services........................................................ 44!
Technical Support................................................................44!
7. MISCELLANEOUS ........................................................... 47!
FCC Compliance .................................................................47!
Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment (WEEE) ..............47!

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Follow these safety instructions when using or handling your VUZIX Video
Eyewear to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury to persons and
property.
1. READ ALL OF THE INSTRUCTIONS AND SAFETY INFORMATION
PROVIDED BEFORE USING THIS PRODUCT.
2. Use the product only for its intended use, as described in this manual.
3. Close supervision is needed when this product is used by or near children.
4. Children under the age of seven (7) are still learning to focus and track with
their eyes. Their vision is still immature. For these reasons, THIS PRODUCT
SHOULD NOT BE USED BY CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF
SEVEN (7).
5. A very small portion of the population may experience epileptic seizures
when viewing certain kinds of flashing lights or patterns that are commonly
present in our daily environment. These persons may also experience seizures
while watching some kinds of television pictures or playing certain video games
on regular monitors, including the use of a display system such as this. These
effects can be increased due to the large size of the video screens in this device.
As a result consult a physician if you have any epileptic condition before using
this device or if you experience any of the following symptoms while using this
device: altered vision, muscle twitching, other involuntary movements, loss of
awareness of your surroundings, mental confusion, and/or convulsions.
6. Immersive video, whether viewed on a regular TV, a movie theater screen or
a VUZIX video display, can potentially have adverse effects on the user,
including: motion sickness, perceptual after effects, disorientation, decreased
postural stability, and eye strain. Take frequent breaks to lessen the potential of
these effects, as is commonly suggested for other items, such as keyboards and
computer monitors, that you may tend to fixate or concentrate on. If your eyes
show signs of fatigue or dryness or if any of the above symptoms are noted,
immediately discontinue use of this device and do not resume using it for at
least 30 minutes after the symptoms have fully subsided.
7. Permanent or temporary hearing loss or impairment can result from
excessive volume levels emitted from the headphones. Always adjust the
volume to a safe level BEFORE wearing the product or headphones.

3
8. Always be aware of the world around you. This product will immerse you in
realistic sights and sounds, possibly causing you to forget about the real world
around you and the threats to your well being and the well being of others. DO
NOT use this product near stairs, balconies, or other things that can be tripped
over, run into, knocked down or fallen over. This product should only be used
while you are seated and never while using sharp or potentially dangerous
objects, operating any form of mechanical device, driving motor vehicles, or
performing any act that normally requires you to see and/or be aware of your
surroundings.
9. This product may be tethered to a power outlet and cables may extend
between components. Be careful that these cords do not tangle around you or
pose a potential threat to the safety of others.
10. Do not disassemble this product. If service work is required, contact
VUZIX using the Support contact information shown in this manual.
11. Do not pull or yank on the cable, kink any of the cables or tie them in sharp
or tight knots. Do not hang the product or allow it to be suspended by any of
its cables. To disconnect cables, pull on the cable connector. Cables damaged
by such actions are not covered by the product’s limited warranty.
12. Do not drop, strike, or cause any portion of the product to be struck or
shaken aggressively. Such actions may damage the product and void your
warranty.
13. Save these instructions for future reference.
Immediately unplug the product from external power sources if:
•Liquid has been sprayed, splashed or poured on the product.
•Any component of the product has been dropped or damaged.
•The product exhibits any distinct change in performance.
Batteries contain toxic materials. Do not burn, disassemble, mutilate, or
puncture the batteries.
Do not dispose of batteries in a fire.
Dispose of batteries in a method that is consistent with your local laws and
regulations.

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Vuzix warrants that your Vuzix hardware product shall be free from defects
in material and workmanship for the length of time specified in the
Warranty Period (one year), beginning from the date of purchase. If your
Vuzix hardware product is used for commercial purposes (including rental
or lease) the Warranty Period shall be reduced to only ninety (90) days from
date of purchase. Except where prohibited by applicable law, this warranty
is nontransferable and is limited to the original purchaser and does not
apply to anyone else, including anyone to whom You later make any
transfer or sale. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may
also have other rights that vary under local laws, some of which are not
affected by the warranties in this Limited Warranty.
This Limited Warranty does not cover, and no warranty of any kind is
provided with respect to any subjective or aesthetic aspects of the hardware
product. Vuzix does not warrant that the operation of the product will be
uninterrupted or error-free. The limited warranty stated above is the only
warranty made to You and is provided in lieu of all other express or implied
warranties and conditions (except for any non-disclaimable implied
warranties that exist), including any created by any other documentation or
packaging. No information or suggestions (oral or in a record) given by
Vuzix, its agents, affiliates, dealers or suppliers or its or their employees or
agents, shall create a warranty or condition or expand the scope of this
Limited Warranty.
Any software distributed with the hardware product by Vuzix with or
without the Vuzix brand name is not covered under this Limited Warranty.
Refer to the licensing agreement accompanying the software (viewable
upon its installation), for details of your rights with respect to its use.
Vuzix’s entire liability and Your exclusive remedy for any breach of
warranty shall be, at Vuzix’ option, (1) to repair or replace all or part of the
hardware, 2) exchange the hardware with a product that is new or which
has been manufactured from new or serviceable used parts and is at least
functionally equivalent to the original product, or (3) to refund the price
paid by You less reasonable depreciation based on your actual use, provided
that the hardware is returned to the point of purchase or such other place

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as Vuzix may direct with a copy of the sales receipt or dated itemized
receipt. Except where prohibited by applicable law, all shipping and
handling costs associated with transport (including packaging) for warranty
service shall be at Your expense. Vuzix may, at its option, use new or
refurbished or used parts in good working condition to repair or replace
any hardware product. Any replacement hardware product will be
warranted for the remainder of the original warranty period or thirty (30)
days, whichever is longer or for any additional period of time that may be
applicable in Your jurisdiction. This warranty does not cover problems or
damage resulting from (1) Acts of God, power surge, misuse, abuse,
negligence, accident, wear and tear, mishandling, misapplication, or other
causes unrelated to defects in the hardware device (2) any unauthorized
repair, modification, tampering or disassembly; (3) improper operation or
maintenance, usage not in accordance with product instructions or
connection to improper voltage supply; or (3) use of consumables, such as
replacement batteries, not supplied by Vuzix except where such restriction
is prohibited by applicable law.
Technical support is defined as assistance with questions on issues about
the Vuzix hardware product. Technical support for hardware and its
software is available for the first ninety (90) days from date of product
purchase. Your dated sales or delivery receipt, showing the date of purchase
or lease of the product, is Your proof of the purchase or lease date. You
may be required to provide proof of purchase or lease as a condition of
receiving software technical support. The addresses and technical service
contact information for Vuzix can be found in the documentation
accompanying your product and on the web at our global site:
www.vuzix.com.
Vuzix is the warrantor under this Limited Warranty. Before submitting a
warranty claim, we recommend You visit the support section at
www.vuzix.com for technical assistance. Warranty claims cannot be
processed through the point of purchase and any other product related
questions should be addressed directly to Vuzix. The addresses and
customer service contact information for Vuzix can be found in the
documentation accompanying Your product and on the web at our global
site at www.vuzix.com, which will also identify any Vuzix subsidiary or

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branch serving Your country and its local address. You may also write to:
Vuzix Sales Support, 75 Town Centre Drive, Rochester, NY 14623, USA.
VUZIX SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT,
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES WHATSOEVER,
INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO LOSS OF PROFITS,
REVENUE OR DATA (WHETHER DIRECT OR INDIRECT) OR
COMMERCIAL LOSS FOR BREACH OF ANY EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED WARRANTY ON YOUR PRODUCT EVEN IF VUZIX HAS
BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.
Some jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of special,
indirect, incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or
exclusion may not apply to You, but the remainder of this Limited
Warranty shall remain in full force and effect.
EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT PROHIBITED BY APPLICABLE LAW,
ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OR CONDITION OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE
ON THIS HARDWARE PRODUCT IS LIMITED IN DURATION TO
THE LIMITED WARRANTY PERIOD STATE ABOVE FOR YOUR
PRODUCT. Some jurisdictions do not allow limitations on how long an
implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to You. Please
note that in the European Union, any warranty period less than two years
shall be increased to two years except in the case of use for commercial
purposes.

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S&
The STAR 1200 and STAR 1200XL Augmented Reality systems set the
standard in first-person augmented reality. They combine multiple integrated
components providing a complete and flexible AR solution.
Other than a small number of features and capabilities differences, the STAR
1200 and STAR 1200XL are essentially the same and operate in the same
manner. Any differences between the two models are noted in the respective topic
headings. Other than where such a distinction is made, both models will simply be
referred to as the STAR 1200 through this User Guide.
System Requirements & Compatibility
A STAR 1200 is a modular design able to connect to and work with a
number of host devices. Due to the ports and internal support provided by
some devices they may not be compatible with certain STAR 1200
components
Tip: A “host device” is the computer, mobile or other device used to process and
provide the AR content.
Chapter
1

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Key Product Components:
•Video Display
•Controller
•Audio System
•Head Tracker
•Video Camera
Compatibility:
•Windows 7, Vista and XP
•Video card able to support an second monitor
•VGA compatible video port
•USB 2.0 port (2)
Each of the “Key Product Components” is compatible with a Windows
based personal computer, as specified above.
For other host devices, see each of the Key Product Components as listed
below.
The video display is compatible with the host devices supported by the
current Controller. Both 2D and 3D video are supported with the
Controller governing the 3D formats supported. Both support the most
common 3D format known as “side-by-side”.

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Two Controllers are provided with the STAR 1200. A VGA Controller
enables connection to personal computers and the PowerPak+ Controller
enables connection to host devices providing composite and component
audio/video connections.
The VGA Controller connects to a VGA and a USB 2.0 port. A VGA
compliant adapter can be used for connection to other video port formats.
A USB hub may be used if sufficient USB ports are not available. The USB
hub must be powered and be USB 2.0 compliant.
A PowerPak+ Controller connects host devices such as mobile phones and
tablets that provide either a composite or component A/V connection. In
addition to the side-by-side 3D video format, anaglyph 3D video is also
supported when using this Controller.

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The STAR 1200 is equipped with two removable stereo headphones. They
are compatible with all devices supported by the VGA and PowerPak+
Controllers.
The Wrap Tracker connects to a host device through the VGA Controller.
It is Windows compatible and works with supporting software only. It is
not supported for use with non-Windows operating systems and does not
work with a PowerPak+ Controller connection.
Software applications must be explicitly enabled to support a Wrap Tracker.
A Vuzix SDK is available to aid in the addition of head tracking support in
Windows software.
:
A 1080p HD camera is provided with the STAR 1200. This camera is UVC
(Universal Video Class) compliant, meaning it will work with Windows,
Mac and Linux based PCs without additional drivers.
Tip: Additional features and benefits may be available with added drivers and
software. This camera is based upon a Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920 and
software designed for that camera can be used to enhance its performance.

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The camera requires a separate USB 2.0 connection to the host device.
Tip: The camera is recognized by a PC’s operating system as a standard USB
webcam.
Note: Most mobile devices do not support the connection of an external camera.
The STAR 1200 includes a Documentation & Software package that you
download from the Vuzix website: www.vuzix.com/dd. This download
contains two software applications – VR Manager and maxReality – plus
documentation and a variety of resources.
VR Manager is a Windows application that enables calibration of the head
tracker and VR support for a broad variety of games and simulation
program.
maxReality is a plug-in software that enables Autodesk 3ds Max scenes and
content to be transformed into 3D AR content.
Tip: The STAR 1200 is compatible with virtually all of the leading AR
authoring applications – maxReality is just one of your AR authoring
options.
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Package Contents*
STAR 1200 Video Eyewear
1080p HD Camera
VGA Controller
PowerPak+ Controller
Wrap Tracker
Digital Download Instructions
Safety & Warranty Booklet
STAR 1200 Quick Start Guide
maxReality Product License Key
iPod/iPhone Cable Adapter
USB Cable, Mini - B
Composite Cable, female RCA
Wrap 4-band Cable Adapter
Component Cable
Wrap Earphones w/Earphone Rings
Tether Strap
DVI/VGA Adaptor
Cloth Carry Pouch
Carrying Case
Dual-cable clips
Double Cable, Temple Clip
AR Marker Paddle – s0
AR Marker Paddle – m0
Note: Some product names indicated on some packaged items included in the STAR
1200 package differ from the names shown above.
* Subject to change without notice.
Digital Distribution Products
Note: As indicated on the Digital Distribution Instruction Card included with the STAR
1200, the following documentation and software is made available for download
from the Vuzix website: www.vuzix.com/dd.
STAR 1200 User Guide
PowerPak + Controller Addendum
VR Manager software installer

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VR Manager User Guide
maxReality software installer
maxReality User Guide
maxReality Marker Library PDF
maxReality Viewer - Key Commands Reference Sheet
Software Updates and Upgrades
Vuzix provides two web locations for downloading software and
documentation.
The Digital Distribution web page (www.vuzix.com/DD) provides
complete packages of the current versions of all software and
documentation the specific product.
A Downloads and Drivers web page (www.vuzix.com/downloads) provides
software and documentation updates for individual files.

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The following instructions lead you through the basic connection and setup of a
STAR 1200 Augmented Reality System on a Windows based PC, the most
common operating environment for this AR eyewear model.
Note: If you have not already done so, download the STAR 1200 software and
documentation package from www.vuxiz.com/dd and read the Safety and
Warranty information provided with this product before proceeding.
Step 1: Accessory Installation
Earphones
The Wrap noise-isolating earphones are an optional use accessory, not
required for the operation of the display module and other components.
Three sizes of noise isolators are provided.
The earphones are interchangeable left to right and the eyewear can be used
with or without the earphones.
"Plug the stereo earphones into the jacks above the eyewear displays.
Be sure to adjust the volume to a safe and comfortable level before
inserting the earphones into your ears. Volume is controlled using the left
Chapter
2

15
and right directional arrows (< >) on the Controller. If an alternate audio
system is used, volume is provided through that system’s controls.
Note: When you connect your STAR system a Windows based computer Windows will
detect a new USB audio system and automatically configure your computer to
output sound to the Wrap earphones.
"To use an alternate audio system, select it from the “Playback” section of
the Windows “Sound” Control Panel.
Tracker
The Wrap Tracker is an optional use accessory and is not required for the
operation of the display module and other components.
"Plug the Tracker into its port above and to the right of the right side display.
Prior to using the tracker it must be calibrated. Calibration is performed
using the VR Manager software, explained later in this User Guide.
Note: Although the Tracker connector may look similar to a USB Mini-B connector, it is
not. This is a proprietary connector and connecting a USB device to the Tracker
port on the eyewear or connecting the Tracker to a USB connector may damage
these devices.
Step 2: Hardware Connections
Connecting the Camera
If your camera is not still connected from when the camera software was
installed, connect it now to an available USB port.
USB

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The camera connects to a standard USB 2.0 port. If a free port is not
available, a powered USB 2.0 powered hubs can be used. Unpowered hubs
may not provide the required power. USB 2.0 compliant extensions can
also be used if required.
Connecting the VGA Controller
The STAR 1200 includes a VGA Controller that interfaces with a Windows
based netbook, laptop or desktop personal computer. Additional Control
Box interfaces are available for other host systems, including mobile phones
and media players. See the Vuzix website (www.vuzix.com) for additional
information.
This Controller can be used to connect to other operating systems though
some features and capabilities of the STAR 1200 may not be available or
supported on other operating systems.
"Connect the lead from the video eyewear to the Controller, as shown above.
The black side of the connector faces up, toward the control buttons.
"Connect the VGA display connector to a VGA port on your computer or your
computer’s graphics card.
Tip: If your computer does not have a 15-pin VGA port available, a graphics port
adaptor, such as the VGA/DVI adaptor provided, may be used. Additional VGA
adapter styles are available from most computer stores.
"Connect the Controller’s USB connector to a USB 2.0 port on your
computer.
Note: USB 2.0 powered hubs and extensions can be used. If an unpowered USB hub
or USB extension cable that is not USB 2.0 compliant is used, the associated
devices and other STAR 1200 components may not function as intended.
Computer Display Configuration
USB
USB
VGA Display

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Your computer display must be configured correctly to be compatible with
the STAR displays. The specific steps required to configure the display
options will vary from one operating system to another and even between
different versions of Windows.
The following steps demonstrate configuring Windows 7 for a 1280 x 720
display resolution – the maximum resolution compatible with the STAR
1200.
"Left-click on an open area of a Windows 7 desktop and select “Screen
resolution” from the drop menu.
"From the Control Panel’s “Multiple displays:” drop list, select “Duplicate
these displays”
Tip: Other versions of Windows may refer to “Duplicate displays” as “Mirrored
Displays” or “Cloned Displays”.
"From the “Resolution:” drop list, choose “1280x720”.
"Click on “Advanced Settings”.
"Select the “Monitor” tab.
"Select a “Screen refresh rate:” of “60 Hertz” (60 Hz).
"Apply the changes and close the Control Panel.
If all is well, your desktop monitor display should be mirrored in the Star
1200 displays. If the STAR eyewear does not mirror your desktop display,
go back through each of the above steps and correct the incorrect setting.
Regardless of the operating system being used, the following display
configuration is required:
•Mirrored or duplicate displays – the same image for your desktop
and video eyewear displays.
•Screen resolution, for both desktop and eyewear displays of
640x480, 800x600, 1024x768, or 1280 x 720.
•Refresh rate of 60 Hz.

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Tip: It is suggested to set the STAR eyewear as the Primary display. It the STAR is
not configured as the Primary display, it may not function correctly on some
systems.
Note: 640x480 may not work on some Windows XP systems.
PowerPak+ Controller
Your STAR 1200 includes a Wrap PowerPak + Controller. This is a
rechargeable lithium-ion Controller supporting composite and component
video connections.
Note: The PowerPak + Controller does not support the tracker data communications.
"Connect the STAR eyewear to the PowerPak’s “Out” labeled port, toward
the right side.
"Connect the cable from your source device to the PowerPak’s middle port,
labeled “In”.
The PowerPak + is recharged using a USB cable equipped with a mini-B
connector. Its power source can be a powered USB port on your computer
or a USB power adapter that plugs into the wall.